Hello all, I'm new to this forum but not new to the amazing Hobie line of kayaks. My question is I have a chance to purchase a 2007 AI all stock well sailed but plenty of life left, for a reasonable price under 2k. I currently own a 2012 rev 13 that I was going to add the sailing kit and stabilizing pontoons, till next year then buy a 2013-14 Ai or Ti. any suggestions like should I just wait and buy new or be happy sailing this summer on a 2007 Ai?

If the money is not the determining factor, I'd buy new. A lot of worthy improvements since '07 + the warranty factor on new. As far as TI or AI, depends on your preference. I like the AI, for ease of transport & I do a lot of fishing w/o the sail setup. Also have an Oasis & Revo setup to sail for the guests!

Why wait till next year, why not new now? You're not getting any younger! lol

_________________BobProud member Kayak Fishing Association of New YorkSupporting member NEKF, Supporting member Team JinxKW's KFA Team 3

Just a thought, buy the AI now, and then sell it when you are ready to buy new. I would tend to think that the ""loss" when you sell the AI can be thought of as a pretty cheap "rent" for the time you have it.

I took a very good look at a 2008 AI that was $2100 and advertised as great condition. I was quickly convinced to buy new. Lots of changes in the past couple of years addressing various design issues. Also great fun tricking out and rigging a new boat your way. Bring a big boy wallet. I would estimate most kayak fisherman put an extra $2000 worth of rigging into an AI.

I'm strongly agree with Tony's wise "rental" comments. If this is summertime for you now, go make a killer deal and sail away! Start doing circles around your yakking friends (and then sell it to one of them when that new RED AI or TI catches your eye).

But do a full leak test first and assess any replacement items (sail ripped?) Other stuff, (tramps, VHF, Railblaza stuff, fish finder, etc) you can transfer to a new AI.

Just a thought, buy the AI now, and then sell it when you are ready to buy new. I would tend to think that the ""loss" when you sell the AI can be thought of as a pretty cheap "rent" for the time you have it.

I agree with Tony - I bought a secondhand 2009 (2007 hull) AI when I could not afford a new one - and got on the water immediately - I learned how to sail it and build hakas and take video and do a little fishing etc - I sold it the next season and got almost all my money back. I estimate it cost me $100 to own it for the previous season - try renting one for a week for that money.So kjredsox make sure it is seaworthy and go for it !